Down Home with the Neelys Season 11 Episode 3 Money Saving Party Pleasers

Down Home with the Neelys is a popular cooking show that features the dynamic couple, Pat and Gina Neely, as they showcase their love for great food and entertaining. In season 11 episode 3, titled "Money Saving Party Pleasers", the Neelys focus on creating affordable party dishes that don't compromise on flavor.

Pat and Gina begin the episode by highlighting the importance of budget-friendly dishes for successful parties. They argue that throwing a great party doesn't have to break the bank, and that making smart choices when it comes to ingredients and preparation can still result in delicious, satisfying dishes.

To put their theory into practice, the Neelys take on several appetizers and side dishes that are perfect for any party spread. One standout dish is their chicken satay skewers, which combine tender marinated chicken with a spicy peanut sauce. Gina demonstrates how to make a large batch of the marinade using common pantry staples, while Pat grills the skewers to perfection. The result is a mouthwatering and aromatic dish that is sure to impress guests.

Next up is the Neelys' take on mac and cheese, a classic party dish that is often expensive to make. They show viewers how to use leftover ingredients such as milk, cheese, and even stale bread to create a rich and creamy mac and cheese that rivals any gourmet version. They also add flavorful touches such as chopped bacon and green onions for added texture and taste.

Pat and Gina then move on to their Cheddar Bay biscuits, a low-cost alternative to the popular chain restaurant's biscuits. They show viewers how to make these easy and flavorful biscuits using biscuit mix, cheddar cheese, and butter. They note that these biscuits are a favorite at their own parties and are always a hit with guests.

To finish off the episode, the Neelys create a refreshing party punch using frozen fruit, lemonade, and soda. They explain how to make the punch ahead of time and store it in the freezer until party time, saving both time and money. They also suggest adding vodka or rum for an adult version of the punch.

Throughout "Money Saving Party Pleasers", Pat and Gina emphasize the importance of using what is on hand and being creative when it comes to party food. They also stress the importance of having fun and enjoying the process of cooking and entertaining. This episode is a testament to their philosophy that good food doesn't have to be expensive and that entertaining can be both delicious and affordable.

Overall, "Money Saving Party Pleasers" is a fun and informative episode that is perfect for anyone looking to throw a party on a budget. The Neelys' enthusiasm for cooking and entertaining is infectious, and viewers will come away from the episode with plenty of new recipe ideas to try at their own parties.